Coquitlam RCMP and victims of graffiti are fighting back against taggers who they say hurt the community and make people feel unsafe.
A voucher system has been set up between the police and General Paint to help those who have been vandalized access cheap paint so they can quickly cover up the damage.
"Graffiti costs our communities tens of thousands of dollars every year and it's a tough crime for police to handle through traditional methods," said Const. Matt Berinbaum, who manages the Coquitlam RCMP's graffiti strategy. "This new voucher system will be an important part of that work."
Graffiti victims who report the incident to the RCMP can use their police file number at any community police station to get a voucher for paint and supplies. The vouchers will give applicants access to lower prices for use in graffiti cover up projects.
Berinbaum said the vouchers are part of a multi-pronged approach to addressing the graffiti issues. Police are also taking the time to investigate all reports of vandalism and are partnering with crime prevention programs in an effort to stop graffiti before it starts, he added.
"Every program and project gets us closer to graffiti-free neighbourhoods," saidJodie McNiece, the head of Port Coquitlam's community police station. "It's great to give people some tools to take a stand against taggers and show them who really owns this community."
To qualify for a voucher, a graffiti victim must report the crime to police to get a file number. They then take the number to their local police station for a voucher, which can be redeemed at any General Paint location.
Graffiti crime can be reported in person at local community police stations or by calling the Coquitlam RCMP's non-emergency reporting line at 604-945-1550.
For more information go to www.coquitlam.rcmp.ca.
